Contents
Description
Dioscorea Japonica, also known as Japanese yam or nagaimo, is a perennial vine native to East Asia. It belongs to the Dioscoreaceae family, which includes over 600 species of yams and other tuberous plants. Dioscorea Japonica is widely cultivated for its edible tubers, which are a staple food in many Asian countries. The plant can grow up to 5 meters long and has heart-shaped leaves and small greenish-yellow flowers.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Monocotyledonae |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Dioscoreaceae |
| Genus | Dioscorea |
Appearance
Dioscorea Japonica has a long and slender stem that can grow up to 5 meters long. The stem is covered in rough, brownish-gray bark and has numerous tendrils that allow the plant to climb. The leaves are heart-shaped, pointed, and alternate along the stem. They are green on top and paler on the underside. The flowers are small and greenish-yellow, and they grow in clusters on long, thin stalks. The fruit is a capsule that contains numerous black seeds.
Care Guide
To grow Dioscorea Japonica, you need to provide it with the right amount of water, fertilizer, soil, sunlight, and protection from cold temperatures.Water: The plant needs regular watering but should not be overwatered. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth and tuber formation.Soil: The plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. A pH of 5.5 to 6.5 is ideal.Sunlight: The plant needs full sun to partial shade. It prefers a sheltered spot that is protected from strong winds.Hardiness Zones: Dioscorea Japonica is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Dioscorea Japonica is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet. Common pests that may affect the plant include aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. These can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Dioscorea Japonica is native to East Asia, including China, Japan, and Korea. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and mountain slopes. The plant prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Dioscorea Japonica be grown in pots?
A: Yes, Dioscorea Japonica can be grown in pots as long as the pot is large enough to accommodate the plant’s long stem and deep root system.
Q: When is the best time to plant Dioscorea Japonica?
A: The best time to plant Dioscorea Japonica is in the spring, after the last frost, when the soil has warmed up.
Q: How long does it take for Dioscorea Japonica to grow?
A: Dioscorea Japonica takes about 2-3 years to reach maturity and produce tubers.
Q: Is Dioscorea Japonica a medicinal plant?
A: Yes, Dioscorea Japonica has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including digestive disorders, respiratory infections, and inflammation.
Related Plants
Here are some related plants in the Dioscoreaceae family:
- Dioscorea alata (purple yam)
- Dioscorea bulbifera (air potato)
- Dioscorea opposita (Chinese yam)
- Dioscorea polystachya (water yam)
References
- “Dioscorea japonica.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed June 16, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d424
- “Dioscorea japonica.” Plants of the World Online. Accessed June 16, 2021. http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:60492744-2
- “Japanese yam: Dioscorea japonica.” Dave’s Garden. Accessed June 16, 2021. https://davesgarden.com/guides/pf/go/165605/
